CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The Coastal Bend Blood Bank is recognizing dozens of local schools for their efforts to support community health through student led blood drives. 

Students from more than 50 Coastal Bend schools were honored Thursday during a special luncheon at Mansion Royal as part of the organization’s “High School Hero” program. According to the blood center, school-based drives contributed more than 13,000 units of blood during the current school year, accounting for more than 30% of all donations in the Coastal Bend. 

Orange Grove High School received top honors after collecting more than 1,200 units, leading all participating campuses. Blood bank officials say the program continues to play a critical role in maintaining local blood supplies and encouraging young donors to become regular contributors. 

Organizers say the recognition event highlights not only the impact of student participation, but also the importance of ongoing community involvement in maintaining adequate blood inventory levels year-round. 

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